TOKYO: The Government of Japan on Friday expressed profound concern regarding the expansion of the illegal settlement construction plans by the Israeli occupation within the so-called E1 area of the West Bank.

In an official statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the Japanese government reiterated its deep regret concerning the persistence of Israeli unilateral actions, specifically settlement expanding, notwithstanding repeated appeals from the international community, including Japan.

“Japan once again strongly urges Israel to rescind the aforementioned plan and implement a comprehensive freeze on all settlement activities. Furthermore, the Government of Japan calls upon Israel to promptly execute appropriate measures to prevent acts of violence by settlers,” the statement said.

The Japanese Government considers that Israeli settlements constitute a violation of international law and undermine the viability of a two-state solution. “The Government of Japan reaffirms the importance of achieving peace in the Middle East through a two-state solution and, in collaboration with the international community, will exert all necessary diplomatic efforts to halt the settlement activities by Israel,” the statement said.